Final answer:
Clifford Geertz defined religion as a system of symbols that establishes moods and motivations, formulates conceptions of existence, and gives them an aura of factuality. This definition helps anthropologists analyze the cultural significance of religion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clifford Geertz, an American anthropologist, defined religion as "a system of symbols which acts to establish powerful, pervasive, and long-lasting moods and motivations...by formulating conceptions of a general order of existence and clothing these conceptions with such an aura of factuality that the moods and motivations seem uniquely realistic." Geertz's definition takes a holistic approach, considering emotions and feelings, and emphasizes the role of symbols in religious practices. It provides a framework for anthropologists to analyze the cultural significance of religion and understand how it influences individuals and societies.